ICD-10 Code A41.5 – Sepsis due to other Gram-negative organisms (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A41.5 – Sepsis due to other Gram-negative organisms
What it is
A41.5 identifies sepsis caused by Gram-negative organisms not named in a more specific code. It reflects a systemic, life-threatening response to infection rather than simple bacteremia.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings include evidence of infection with systemic illness, such as fever or hypothermia, altered mental status, and signs of organ dysfunction.
When to use this code
Use A41.5 when the provider documents sepsis due to a Gram-negative organism and no more specific organism code is available. It also fits when the organism is described only as an “other” Gram-negative cause. Confirm that the record supports sepsis, not just infection or colonization.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for localized infection without sepsis, or when a more specific organism code is documented. Check documentation if the chart only states bacteremia, SIRS, or suspected infection.
Coding tip
Code the documented organism and sepsis separately when required, and verify any associated acute organ dysfunction.